Cons

Bottom Line

This upper-middle-range boutique in Uptown Sedona has 77 stylish, contemporary rooms with up-to-date technology. Some have views of the red rocks, but the tiny balconies don’t allow for outside seating. If views are a priority, the slightly less stylish Best Western Arroyo Roble features larger balconies with good views for around the same same price. But it lacks the Rouge Hotel's luxury spa.

Oyster Hotel Review

Contemporary building with lush courtyard and a small but inviting pool

The Mediterranean-and-Spanish-themed Rouge was built in 2005, and features a small lobby and spacious courtyard that contains a splashing fountain, red tile floors, and works of art. Reds Restaurant, the hotel’s contemporary bistro lounge and bar, sits on the front of the property beside the courtyard, while the pool, Jacuzzi, and spa are located in the back of the hotel. The pool isn’t large, but it is staffed, so guests can get their ice water refilled while they lounge -- a nice touch. The spa offers a Tranquility Room and a full range of treatments and yoga classes.

Views are nice from the observation deck on top of the hotel, although the adjacent Safeway grocery store parking lot does intrude a bit. But some may consider the nearby store a convenience instead of a mood-killer.

The Rouge fronts Sedona’s busiest street (Highway 89A) and occupies the middle of town, so you won't get the nature experience offered at other resorts like the Junipine. But the tradeoff is convenience: There is plenty of convenient shopping and dining close by. There’s a Safeway grocery next door, more businesses across the street, and a residential area to the north.

The red rock cliffs are farther from the Rouge than from some other hotels in Sedona, so the views can be ho-hum by comparison, but many hiking trails are within a five-minute drive.

The Rouge was built in 2005, and its 77 rooms continue to look clean and contemporary. Red-and-white bedding, curtains, and paint match the Sedona landscape, and dark wood furniture accents the earthy tones. Most rooms have large walk-in showers with two showerheads (one on the wall, and a rain showerhead on the ceiling).

Good views of the red rocks can be had on the 2nd and 3rd floors in north-facing rooms.

Reds Restaurant serves upscale American comfort food prepared by Chef Rom Moler for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It's a lively, popular spot, with live music offered most nights. Reds provides room service and poolside service.